🚢 Boating the St. Lawrence Seaway & Thousand Islands: Gateway to Two Nations

For adventurous mariners, few places are as captivating—and as uniquely international—as the St. Lawrence Seaway and Thousand Islands region. Stretching from the mouth of Lake Ontario to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this waterway connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and forms a scenic, historic boundary between the United States and Canada.

But beyond its engineering marvels, the Thousand Islands—a cluster of over 1,800 islands scattered across a 50-mile stretch—offer a boater’s paradise: charming towns, historic castles, pristine anchorages, and crystal-clear waters.

🌍 What and Where Is the St. Lawrence Seaway?

The St. Lawrence Seaway is a system of locks, canals, and channels that allow oceangoing vessels to travel between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes. It begins near Montreal and stretches westward past Quebec, Ontario, and into New York state. For recreational boaters, this waterway offers one of the most beautiful and diverse cruising grounds in North America.

🏝️ The Magic of the Thousand Islands

Despite the name, the Thousand Islands actually number 1,864—and they range from tiny, tree-covered islets to sprawling private estates.

Must-See Stops:

🏰 Boldt Castle (Alexandria Bay, NY)

Built in the early 1900s as a monument of love, this palatial structure is accessible only by boat. You can dock at Heart Island and tour the grounds.

🏯 Singer Castle (Chippewa Bay, NY)

Another magnificent, lesser-known castle that offers tours and overnight stays.

🛥️ Clayton, NY

This quaint town features the Antique Boat Museum, waterfront dining, and easy access to fuel and provisioning.

🇨🇦 Gananoque, Ontario

A picturesque Canadian town with waterfront parks, a marina, and the perfect jumping-off point to explore the Canadian side of the islands.

⚓ Tips for Boating in the Seaway

✅ Navigation & Charts

• Use updated charts—rocks and shoals are common!
• Many islands are privately owned, so pay attention to signage when anchoring or stepping ashore.

✅ Border Crossing

• Carry valid passports or border documents
• Use the CBP ROAM App (U.S.) or ArriveCAN (Canada) for entry processing
• Check for boating-specific customs stations in advance

✅ Locks & Channels

• If you're traveling farther east on the Seaway, you'll need to pass through multiple locks—be prepared with fenders, lines, and patience
• Monitor VHF Channel 13 for lock communications

🦅 Wildlife and Water Clarity

The Thousand Islands are known for:

• Bald eagle and osprey sightings
• Crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming
• Great fishing, especially for bass, northern pike, and muskellunge

🏕️ Where to Anchor or Dock

• Wellesley Island State Park (NY): Marina, campsites, and fuel
• Leek Island (Thousand Islands National Park, Canada): Quiet anchorage, mooring balls, and hiking trails
• Clayton or Alexandria Bay: Dock and dine with easy town access

🚨 Safety Considerations

• Strong currents are present near some channels and locks—stay alert
• VHF radios are essential; monitor Channel 16 and local marina channels
• Weather changes quickly—especially in early spring and late fall
• Know the rules for both U.S. and Canadian waters before crossing

🧭 Final Thoughts from BoatnCrew.com

Boating through the St. Lawrence Seaway and Thousand Islands offers something for everyone—romantic castles, international travel, pristine nature, and the thrill of navigating a historically vital waterway. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a passage to the Atlantic, this region rewards explorers with unforgettable moments.

At BoatnCrew.com, we’re proud to support mariners heading into these legendary waters. Use our platform to:

• Find experienced crew or captains for your journey
• Hire local guides who know the shoals, anchorages, and customs regulations
• Share your services or search for adventure-ready vessels

Wishing you clear skies and calm currents—

The BoatnCrew.com Team ⚓

Explore further. Anchor deeper. Sail smarter.